There have been a few changes to make note of for 2009 Medicare Part D.
First:
Part D plans do not include benzodiazepines in the standard formulary (Xanax is one example). However, some richer plans with a slightly higher premium may offer drugs in this class if they chose to do so.
Also:
The Part D coverage gap (commonly referred to as the "doughnut hole") will start at $2700 this year and ends when your TROOP (true-out of-pocket costs) reaches $4350. At this point you enter into the "catastrophic coverage" phase and your insurance will pay 95% of your rx costs.
Finally:
The premiums and formularies of all of the plans have changed. If you had the best plan last year, it may not be the best for you this year.
Free information kits can be obtained at http://www.todaysmedicare.com along with any other Medicare related materials.
